It’s true. I am about to reveal the best new fundraising trick for your organization. Read on, it’s in Step 2.

Step 1: Start here:

1. Have a strong case for support – Why is your organization is worthy of the donor’s philanthropy?
2. Be creative. You are not the only nonprofit in your space – Know and share what makes you unique.
3. Determine institutional priorities – what you want your donors to fund.
4. Research your donors – understand your current trends (increased donor retention or decreased first time donor lapses).
5. Decide which segment you want to focus your energy on this year.
6. Research why this donor segment funds your nonprofit
   1. do they have a persona?
   1. what are their priorities?
   1. how they want to be reached? email vs mail vs social media.
7. Thank them. Again and again and again and again and again and again and again.
8. Keep in touch with them throughout the year – more than just solicitations

Step 2: Use the best new fundraising trick:

Dedicate time to do each one of the steps listed above.

Before you dismiss this (or think this is an old trick) consider:

Many of you know what needs to be done. But something else always takes priority. For example, there is something that you need to send out this week or there is one major donor who takes a lot of your time.

Just as you need to schedule vacation time, or doctors’ appointments, you need to schedule time to do the work—the right work. And don’t let other work—the urgent but unimportant– become a priority.  

The real trick knowing what is your priority, what provides the greatest return on your invested time. Know what you want and stay with it for the long haul so you get the expected and best new results.

If you, or anyone in your organization, would like to talk to us about how we can help you with the proven methods and the best fundraising trick this month, email me.